Unusual Zipper front vintage wool dress 40s or 50s?

[susanandco]

Hello, Here I go again second guessing myself. This dress is made of black wool which is sheer when held up to the light. Label is Kathi Originals. Has a metal zipper up the front that appears to be original. Partial seat lining. I am not sure if I should date it 40s or 50s. Wondered if it might be a uniform dress of some sort, but it has no pockets. It has belt loops, but the belt shown is not original. I had just never seen a zipper front dress from this era. Not sure how to describe it. thanks for any help or insights.

 

[retro ruth]

I think the zip front indicates it was a 'house dress' - a garment designed for wearing at home, such as for doing chores.

I see fifties myself, but I'm not totally sure.

 

[retro ruth]

Here's an 1953 pattern for a similar zip front house dress, though with a different sleeve

http://vintagepatterns.wikia.com/wiki/Butterick_6749_A

 

[cmpollack]

I thought of a 50s housedress immediately too--an everyday, chore-doing, market-errand frock!

Has the hem possibly been shortened?

 

[susanandco]

I checked the hem too, I think it might have been shortened. I thought the fabric was kind of unusual ,but I guess the wool would be warm for winter.